The R&D intensity expressed as a percentage of Swedish GDP was 3.4 percent in 2021, according to preliminary statistics. This is a decrease by 0.1 percentage points compared to 2020. Thus, the R&D intensity returns to the same level as was reported in 2019. The decrease in R&D intensity, despite increased expenditure, is a consequence of the GDP growth in 2021.

According to preliminary statistics, the expenditure on intramural R&D in the business enterprise sector increased by 1.5 percent. The corresponding development in the government sector was an increase by 3.3 percent while expenditure in the higher education sector increased by 2.5 percent. The business enterprise sector thus saw the smallest relative increase in expenditure in 2021 of the reported sectors. Though, as this sector accounts for 72 percent of total domestic expenditure on intramural R&D in Sweden, it can still be said to have driven the increase in total expenditure. The reported increase in expenditure on intramural R&D in the higher education sector is in part due to a change in method.

These figures are all preliminary. Final statistics are published on the 27^th of October.

Feel free to use the facts from this statistical news but remember to state Source: Statistics Sweden.